Service Changes Based on Ridership Data and Customer Feedback
Schedules Available Online and in the TrainTime App
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Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) today detailed previously announced schedule changes that will take effect Tuesday, Sept. 5, on the Oyster Bay Branch. These changes, which will result in less crowding and shorter travel times, were made as a result of community feedback and engagement with elected officials.
The series of changes also reflect recent ridership patterns following the railroad’s most recent rewrite of schedules supporting a historic service increase of 41% on Feb. 27, with the opening of full service at Grand Central Madison.
“We are so thrilled to be able to make these improvements for our Oyster Bay Branch customers. The changes we announced today are the result of many conversations with the region’s elected officials, community leaders and commuters,” said LIRR Interim President and Metro-North Railroad President Catherine Rinaldi. “Despite our operational challenges and limitations, these improvements show a willingness to work with our riders and make adjustments wherever possible to improve their commutes.”
Beginning Tuesday, Sept. 5, the following service changes will be in effect:
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The 6:55 a.m. train from Oyster Bay to Hunterspoint Avenue will depart 6 minutes later at 7:01 a.m. and will only make stops at Locust Valley, Glen Street, Glen Head, Roslyn, East Williston, and Jamaica.
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Customers for the 7:17 a.m. train from Oyster Bay to Hunterspoint Avenue traveling to Penn Station will be able to change to a new train originating at Jamaica instead of connecting with a train already carrying passengers from Babylon.
Schedules are available in the TrainTime app and online at https://new.mta.info/schedules.
“This is a direct result of efforts by local residents,” said State Senator Jack M. Martins. “Anytime you can make it easier for people to get to and from work, it means there’s more time for them to do the things they love with family and friends. That means a better quality of life and I applaud any effort to make that happen.”
“I am extremely pleased with these changes which are intended to enhance rider efficiency,” said Assembly Member Charles Lavine. “They were accomplished through steady dialogue with the MTA. While I look forward to continuing to build on the progress made here, we will monitor progress and recommend any necessary modifications we believe can make for an even better commute for riders of the Oyster Bay branch.”
“I am pleased that the MTA LIRR has added a second express train to its morning schedule for our Oyster Bay line commuters,” said Assembly Member Jake Blumencranz. “This is a promising start, and I am looking forward to continuing to be part of this collaborative effort to improve the efficiency of the Oyster Bay line for our commuters.”
“I want to thank the MTA and everyone involved for hearing the pleas of Oyster Bay line riders,” said Glen Cove Mayor Pamela Panzenbeck. “And changing the schedule to make their commutes easier, more convenient and more expedient.”
“As riders it’s important we start somewhere and while these steps don’t solve the problem, they are positive movement forward and I would hope that commuters will see this as a start to continued improvement on our branch,” said City of Glen Cove Council Member Danielle Fugazy. “My hope is that these changes are our first of many as we look to move forward with more meaningful change that will improve our quality of life. I remain committed to working toward better service on the Oyster Bay branch and to working with the MTA.”